Dietary Protein Allowances :
Recommended Daily Allowances (RDA’s) always mention ‘requirement of proteins per day.’ But what our body actually needs are the amino acids that make up the proteins. This means that the amino acid content of the proteins is as important as the grams of protein consumed. So, simply taking say, 20 grams of proteins in a meal is not enough. It is important that this protein contains adequate amount of the esential amino acids.
Also, it is important that the protein can be digested and absorbed to make it available to the body.
Protein how often to consume?
When we consume excess of fat or sugars, our body stores them to use later when required. This is not the case with proteins. The excess proteins consumed are either excreted by the body or, stored as fat or sugars. Now, these fats or sugars cannot be remade into protein at a time when there is deficiency of proteins. This means adequate and good quality proteins must be an important part of every meal.
Who needs proteins?
Everyone is aware that a growing child needs more proteins and energy.
A pregnant woman needs extra nutrition.
But, even the elderly need to take a good amount of good quality protein. This is important in order to prevent loss of muscle mass which is an important contributer to the problems of old age.
Protein comes as a package :
We never consume pure protein. The protein source is accompanied by different quantities of fats, carbohydrates, fibres, vitamins etc. Therefore we have to consider the benefits and complications of the package as a whole. For example, red meat which provides proteins of good quality has a high fat content and low fibre content.
Our body does not care about the source of the protein as long as it provides the required amino acids! So choosing the best protein for you includes looking at what accompanies the protein too.